What Is Extensively Hydrolyzed Formula?

Apr 14, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ma Yan

Introduction

Hydrolyzed protein is protein that has undergone a hydrolysis process, in which intact, large-molecule proteins are broken down into smaller protein fragments or even free amino acids. Infant formula using hydrolyzed protein as its protein source is termed hydrolyzed protein formula. Based on the degree of hydrolysis, hydrolyzed protein formulas are classified into three categories: partially hydrolyzed protein formula, extensively hydrolyzed protein formula, and fully hydrolyzed protein formula.

Infant formula is a widely consumed food product today. High-quality formula can better support an infant’s physical development and overall health. What is extensively hydrolyzed formula?

What Is Extensively Hydrolyzed Formula?

“Extensively hydrolyzed formula is infant formula processed using hydrolysis technology. Typically, large-molecular-weight proteins in the formula are broken down into smaller peptides or free amino acids. This process reduces the allergenicity of milk proteins—thereby helping to prevent allergic reactions in infants, as well as alleviating chronic constipation or recurrent diarrhea. Infants with a family history of allergies or those diagnosed with cow’s milk protein allergy may be prescribed extensively hydrolyzed formula.”

Hydrolyzed protein refers to protein that has undergone enzymatic or acidic hydrolysis, breaking down intact, large-molecular-weight proteins into smaller peptides or even free amino acids. Infant formulas using hydrolyzed protein as their primary protein source are termed hydrolyzed protein formulas. Based on the degree of hydrolysis, these formulas fall into three categories: partially hydrolyzed protein formula, extensively hydrolyzed protein formula, and fully hydrolyzed (amino acid-based) formula.

Extensively hydrolyzed formula is primarily indicated for children with confirmed, clinically significant cow’s milk protein allergy. It helps alleviate a range of symptoms triggered by standard formula feeding—including eczema, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. However, due to its bitter taste, many infants find this formula unpalatable. We hope this explanation proves helpful.

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Can people with hypertension drink milk powder?

Patients with hypertension can consume powdered milk. Currently, numerous types of powdered milk are available on the market; therefore, whether hypertensive patients can consume powdered milk depends on the specific type of product and the individual’s clinical symptoms. Generally, it is recommended that hypertensive patients moderately consume low-fat powdered milk, as it still contains beneficial nutrients such as protein, which support overall health.

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Can individuals with gastroenteritis consume infant formula?

Patients with gastroenteritis should avoid consuming powdered milk, as it contains high levels of protein, fat, trace elements, and minerals. These nutrients are difficult to digest and absorb, and consuming powdered milk may further burden the gastrointestinal tract, exacerbating symptoms such as abdominal distension, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Additionally, patients with gastroenteritis are advised to follow a light, bland diet.

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Can individuals with type 1 diabetes drink infant formula?

It is not recommended for people with diabetes to consume powdered milk. Generally, powdered milk is discouraged for individuals with diabetes because it can cause a rapid and significant rise in blood glucose levels, making glycemic control difficult and leading to greater fluctuations—thereby increasing the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Powdered milk may be consumed only when dietary intake is restricted and independent oral feeding is not possible.

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Must premature infants drink specialized formula for preterm babies?

Premature infants usually do not necessarily need to drink special formula designed for preterm babies. However, if a premature infant has extremely low birth weight or suffers from respiratory and digestive system problems, special preterm formula is typically recommended. For full-term-weight premature infants who have adequate breast milk supply and are able to suckle effectively, such specialized formula is generally not required. After birth, premature infants usually require careful care, and any abnormalities should be treated promptly.

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Experiencing diarrhea after drinking prenatal milk powder

There are several possible reasons why drinking prenatal milk powder may cause diarrhea. One common cause is lactose intolerance—some individuals experience symptoms such as abdominal rumbling or diarrhea after consuming milk powder or cow’s milk, and these individuals are generally not suitable for consuming milk or milk powder. Another possibility is that the milk powder itself is the culprit. If you have a known history of lactose intolerance, it is advisable to discontinue use and switch to another brand of prenatal milk powder.

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Can patients with gastric ulcers drink powdered milk?

Patients with gastric ulcers may consume powdered milk. The primary component of powdered milk is protein, which helps supplement the body’s protein requirements and enhances immune resistance. However, patients with gastric ulcers often experience symptoms such as abdominal distension, abdominal pain, and gastroesophageal reflux. The proteins in powdered milk are generally difficult to digest and tend to produce gas; consequently, some patients may experience worsening of the aforementioned symptoms after consuming powdered milk.

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How to prepare formula milk for babies

Prepare infant formula according to the mixing ratio specified on the formula package, using water at approximately 40°C. Wash your hands before starting, and sterilize the feeding accessories by boiling them in water. Then add the formula powder to the bottle, pour in the warm water, and roll the bottle gently between your palms to fully dissolve the powder.

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Can adults drink infant formula?

Adults can indeed consume infant formula. Infant formula is primarily formulated with reduced levels of protein and minerals compared to standard adult formulas, while also enriched with nutrients such as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), vitamin C, iron, and iodine. Additionally, the protein particles in infant formula are smaller and thus more easily absorbed. Therefore, it is perfectly safe for adults to drink infant formula.

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